Chapter 13: Dinning room (2)
His steps slowed briefly as he took in the hall. The ceilings arched high with chandeliers of aether-glass casting cool glows of blue and red flame. Portraits of past clan heads loomed over the walls like silent judges. The long black table, etched with curling infernal runes, stretched nearly the length of the hall.
Almost all the chairs were empty —the throne-like seat belonging to Valek Demios, the clan head—remained empty. His mother's was also unoccupied.
But the rest...
Only seven of the seats were occupied.
The Crownkin— only two were present, although he didn't recognize them, he instinctively knew because they were the only adults, while the rest of the people seated he didn't recognize them.
The crownkin are the siblings of Valek Demios— the clan head. The men and women once whispered about in noble gatherings as monsters in noble clothes. Each bore the unmistakable aura of those who had awakened to their Aether long ago—and sharpened it through blood and war.
They were the pride and terror of the Demios line.
Zephyr recognized none of them personally, but fragments from the body's memories gave him hints—too few, too faded. Still, instinct screamed that they were dangerous. And watching him like a predator might regard an injured cub foolish enough to wander near the den.
He bowed his head slightly, respectfully. Then walked to the far end where the unclaimed seats sat—beneath the stained-glass crest of the Demios serpent. He pulled out a chair and sat without waiting for permission.
The silence stretched uncomfortably.
Until a sharp voice cut through it.